One of the first things first-time pilgrims ask is, What do I pack for the Camino? Packing for a Camino walk is different from packing for any other trip, as you will likely be carrying everything you need on your back, every day. Carrying everything...that means you will want to pack light - lighter than you have ever imagined!

One tip before we continue: You can find just about everything you might need for your Camino in Spain, and it's kind of fun to shop in another country! Our favorite pilgrim shop on the Camino is located in Pamplona. Check out Caminoteca - the sell anything and everything a pilgrim needs, plus a bunch of things you will really want.

Now, let's start with our core goals for packing...

Pilgrim Packing Goals

The primary goal with packing for the Camino is to pack light. A good goal is to keep your packed backpack (without water and snacks) to 10% or less of your ideal body weight.

Then the next goal is to pack simple. What do you really need to be clean, comfortable, and cared for? Can you get your Camino possessions down to just need?

And finally, we pack smart. This is the time to have the right items, the tried and tested items that you know do the job you need them to. And this is the time to be organized, even if it’s not your natural tendency.
When you join our 'Just Get Me Started' program and begin your Camino with us, you will receive a detailed packing list that helps you calculate and keep track of total weight of the items you are bringing - helping you pack smart, simple, and most importantly, light!

What to Pack

Clothing

Be sure to pack for the season and weather you will be walking in. The following list is applicable for spring, summer, and fall walks. For a winter walk, you may need additional gear.

Bring at least two full changes of clothes, one to wear on the trail and one to change into in the evening

oPants (or shorts or skirt): one made of quick-dry fabric, and one of lightweight knit, khakis, or similar; NO jeans!

oShirts: one made of quick-dry fabric, and one lightweight knit or woven; NO sweaters! (unless it’s lightweight Merino wool specifically designed for hiking) Sleeve length is personal; select long or short depending on season and your tolerance for heat and cold.

Three sets of undergarments

Three pairs of socks

Hiking boots, walking shoes, or sandals

Second pair of footwear, such as Crocs (without holes) or other lightweight slip-on shoes

Flip-flops for the shower (optional)

Hat or head covering for all kinds of weather:sun hat, fleece or wool hat, scarf or bandana

Gloves and scarf if walking in early spring, late fall, or winter

Fleeceor soft-shell jacket

Waterproofs: jacket and pants or a poncho and gaiters

Something to sleep in, conducive to your level of modesty in a mixed-gender dorm room

Bedding & Other Nighttime Items

First Aid Kit

Carry at least a minimum supply of first aid items to address problems that arise on the trail, away from a pharmacy, or Farmacia. Everything else can you will need can be bought, as needed, on the Camino.

(Note that this is a traditional western approach; bring your natural cures if that’s what you use!)

Prescription medications in original containers

Anti-inflammatory, such as Ibuprofen, 200 mg (12)

Antihistamine, if you are prone to allergic reactions (4-6)

Anti-biotic ointment, such as Neosporin

Anti-diarrhea, such as Imodium (4)

Alcohol swab or similar (4)

2” gauze pads (4)

Paper first aid tape

Band-aids / plasters / Compeed (8)

Duck tape or runner's tape (to cover hot spots on your feet before they become blisters)

Small scissors

Tweezers

Needle and thread

Add in anything you know you need for your personal health requirements. Health is personal!